Green Iguana
Origin
Green iguana (Iguana iguana) also called common iguana is a large lizard of the genus Iguana and is found in a large part of Central and South America. The natural habitat of this majestic lizard extends from Mexico in the north to Brazil and Paraguay in the south. However, it has been also introduced to the southern United States, Hawaii and the Caribbean islands.
Characteristics and Behavior
Although its name suggests that the species is green it comes in a variety of colors including bluish, pink, lavender and blackish. It can grow to 5 feet in length (from head to tail) and weight more than 20 pounds. Along the back and tail, they have a row of spines that protects them from predators. Like other lizards, they will allow the tail to break when in danger and regenerate new one eventually. The dewlaps under their neck helps them regulate body temperature but it is also used in courting and scarring off predators.
Green iguanas will flee when feeling threatened but if cornered, they will display their dewlaps, hiss and bop their head against the threat. If the threat persists, they may bite, lash with their tail or scratch with their claws.
Unlike other lizards, green iguana are capable of developing a bonding behavior similar to mammalian pets and tend to have individual personalities. However, it may take several years before they are fully “domesticated“.
Diet
Green iguanas are herbivores and feed almost exclusively on plants. However, feeding them with plants alone is not enough. They require a precise ratio of minerals – 1 to 2 calcium to phosphorus. The wrong ratio can cause health problems. Green iguanas will eat just about anything offered including meat but improper diet high in animal protein can cause serious kidney problems and even premature death.
Optimal diet of green iguana should consist of fresh leafy vegetables, for instance dandelion, collard greens, mustard greens and kale as well as an access to fresh water. Just as important is a source of UVA and UVB lighting which is vital for vitamin D production which in turn is crucial for calcium absorption. Improper lightning can cause metabolic bone disease and lead to premature death.
Housing
Considering that green iguanas can grow up to 5 feet in length they require lots of space. Unless you intend to allow it move freely around your home, you should provide it an enclosure of at least 2 to 3 times its length which should be as high as possible. This means that you need a spare room to provide an adult green iguana optimal living conditions. In addition, they thrive only in high temperatures – 75 to 95F.
Reproduction
Green iguanas are oviparous which means that the female will lay clutches of 20 to 70 eggs after successful mating. It takes about 10 to 15 weeks for the eggs to hatch, while the young iguanas stay in familial groups for one year. During that period, male iguanas protect the females by using their bodies as shields which is unique among the reptiles.
Conclusion
Green iguanas are very popular exotic pets but their special needs require lots of prior research and education about their needs.
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